Mark, Volume 2 - (New Word Biblical Themes: New Testament) by Christopher W Skinner (Paperback)

About the Book

Volumes in New Word Biblical Themes: New Testament series offer short studies of the key themes of each book of the New Testament.

Book Synopsis

Volumes in New Word Biblical Themes: New Testament series offer short, accessible studies of the key themes of each book of the New Testament.

Each volume offers an introduction to the book, a brief exposition of the text with its basic background and a survey of its contents, an overview of its themes, and a deeper look at 3-5 key themes for understanding the book and for preaching and teaching.

The Gospel of Mark provided the church with its first written narrative of Jesus's life and ministry. While often overlooked by early commentators in favor of the Gospels of Matthew and John, Mark's seemingly understated account contains a remarkably organized literary structure with a distinctive vision of Jesus's identity and mission, the in-breaking of God's Kingdom, and a theology of discipleship.

In this volume, Skinner raises historical and literary questions with a view to elucidating some of Mark's important themes and his unique contributions to our understanding of Jesus of Nazareth. In the process of outlining the valuable contributions of the gospel, Skinner attempts to provide a coherent reading of Mark's themes in their broader literary context. This volume explores themes related to Jesus's mission to the Jewish and Roman worlds and his role in inaugurating of God's Kingdom, while demonstrating that Mark's understanding of Jesus Christ was foundational to what became the written gospel tradition.

Review Quotes

'Drawing on ancient and contemporary scholarship, Christopher Skinner offers newcomers a concise yet comprehensive entrand eacute;e into this Gospel's major themes and their religious origins. Due to its clarity and balanced judgment, I know of no better one volume introduction.'--
--Clifton Black, Otto A. Piper Professor Emeritus of Biblical Theology, Princeton Theological Seminary

'In this highly engaging guide, Skinner saves us from miles of missteps by showing us how to listen closely and let Mark speak for himself. He not only explores distinct topics that frame Mark's narrative but also shows how they overlap in subtle and surprising ways, empowering us to interpret this Gospel for ourselves. Laypersons, students, and scholars will all benefit from this refreshing analysis of the key themes that propelled the first written Gospel.'--
--James Barker, Associate Professor of New Testament, Western Kentucky University

'Informed, up-to-date, lively, and accessible--this is an excellent guide to Markan themes for students and pastors alike. A very handy little volume.'--
--Helen K. Bond, Professor of Christian Origins, University of Edinburgh

'Mark's Gospel has lived many lives, but it might just be living its best life now--at the heart of contemporary debates about Christian origins and as a testing ground for new methods in biblical studies. However, this surge of attention brings along a daunting swell of secondary literature; where does one turn to get their bearings? Thankfully, we now have a clear answer. Skinner's reliable and engaging volume is an ideal companion for students and scholars alike; this book will be my go-to introduction to Mark for years to come.'--
--Max Botner, Associate Professor of Biblical Studies, Jessup University

'Skinner succeeds in his aim to 'let Mark be Mark.' With clarity, historical grounding, and scholarly rigor, he traces Mark's presentation of Jesus as Messiah and Son of God, the dynamics of the kingdom of God, and the complex nature of discipleship--making this an invaluable resource for preaching, teaching, and serious study.'--
--Elizabeth Shively, Professor of Christian Scriptures, George W. Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University

'With remarkable clarity, Dr. Christopher Skinner introduces a wide array of issues and interpretive approaches important for understanding the Gospel of Mark. Throughout careful explorations of Mark's presentations of Jesus's identity, the kingdom of God, and discipleship, Skinner models the adage to which he encourages readers: 'Let Mark be Mark.' This theologically nuanced, conscientiously contextualized, and attentive reading of Mark's narrative will be a resource which students of Scripture, from undergraduates to seasoned interpreters, will find worth returning to again and again.'--
--Kara Lyons-Pardue, Professor of New Testament, Point Loma Nazarene University